The Talon newspaper Vol. 15 issue 2

THE TALON Volume 15 Number 2

Nation Ford High School

December 2021

1400 A.O. Jones Blvd.

Founded in 2007 as an Open Forum

Fort Mill, SC 29715

Mental health awareness What students need to know

Student-made merch p. 5

Basketball previews p. 10

2• OP / ED

Unethical: animal testing does more harm than good Staff editorial the test cause “intense burning, itching, and pain.” curing cancer in the mouse. We have cured mice of “If you don’t like pictures of animal cruelty be- Animal testing isn’t required for cosmetic companies cancer for decades, and it simply didn’t work in huing posted on social media, you need to help stop in America. All of this pain is caused so that compa- mans.” Testing cancer research on animals, scientists are wasting money. This also means resources could the cruelty, not the pictures. You should be bothered nies can sell their cosmetics in China. that it’s happening, not that you saw it.”- Marie SaIn addition to being cruel, animal testing is also be used to find better options for testing products.

Some may say that animal testing leads to medirantakis. unnecessary. Other methods of testing exist, such cal breakthroughs and cures. However, many Animal testing is unacceptable. The practice as artificial skin. Greiner Bio-One introduced cures for animals are toxic to humans. For is harmful to the animals, and testing on animals ThinCert cell culture inserts, an artificial example, Rezulin (Troglitazone) was a doesn’t accurately predict human reactions. skin solution that offers an alternative drug that was intended to treat type 2 The testing of products on animals is cruel and to animal testing. The method is more unethical. Approximately 100,000-200,000 animals accurate in prediction than animal tests of products tested (adult-onset) diabetes. In 1997 it was approved by the FDA. Rezulin lowered die from cosmetic testing each year. One exambecause, unlike animals, artificial on animals result rats’ blood sugar without any dangerple of a test used is called the Draize test skin’s DNA is human-based. ous side effects. However, shortly after which is commonly used by cosmetic in failure Another alternative to anit was released, there were many reports companies to test their products. When imal testing is called “organsPETA of liver failure in humans- 391 people died testing the eye’s reaction to products, on-chips.” These chips contain of U.S. adults because of the effects of this drug. they keep rabbits in restraining stocks human cells that mimic the functions of Many animal cures just don’t measure up when it as their eyes are held open with clipshuman organs and systems. Scientists oppose comes to curing humans, and if scientists are testing sometimes for days in a row- to stop can use chips for disease research, drug animal testing these things on animals they are killing both animals them from blinking the products out of testing, and toxicity testing, instead of PETA and humans without good cause. their eyes. laboratory animals.

Laboratory animals deal with pain and suffering As for testing on the skin, they shave the anAnimals and humans do not have exactly every day, and it doesn’t benefit anyone. The testing imals’ fur and rip several layers of their skin off with the same DNA composition which can result in inof products on animals is wrong because it is harmadhesive tape. Then, they apply the products to the accuracies when testing for cures. Even Dr. Richard ful to the animals, and testing on animals doesn’t acabraded area and put plastic sheeting on top (so that Klausner, the former director of the National Cancurately predict human reactions. Better methods of none of the products can escape). According to the cer Institute admitted to the Los Angeles Times, testing exist.

IF National Anti-Vivisection Society both versions of “The history of cancer research has been a history of

95%

52%

POLITICS Adults often overlook teens’ opinions Teenagers forming political opinions provide new insights to their generation

by Elizabeth Ferretti More and more teens today are forming their own opinions on politics in our nation and the idea that teens have political opinions should be normalized.

When talking about politics at school or at home, young people's opinions are often overlooked by adults.

Teens are very close to the voting age, and engaging in a political conversation with adults will prepare them for when they are eligible to decide something as big as who our next president could be.

Acknowledging that teens have their own beliefs relating to politics will improve the discussions and progress on issues young people care about.

“It makes perfect sense for adults to engage teens in political conversations if the teen shows interest,”

The Talon Staff EditorS-In-Chief: Kaiden Bridges Miné Karatas Section Editors: TJ Hailstock Carly Jacobson Connor Lambert Sara Pipa ART: Lilah Skovran Ad Manager: Paityn Tumblin Adviser: Beth Swann

Staff: Josie Alsbrooks Justin Baxter Mackenzie Creasman Kalli Desai Elizabeth Ferretti Isabelle Fetting Connor Ford Emma Harrison Emmie Hayes Gabrielle Kiser Shania Marshall Hanson Nguyen Lucas Smalley Kennedy Warren Kelise Williams Kiara Wiley

803-835-0000 thetalononline2016@gmail.com

THE TALON

said David Berns, advisor of the Young Republicans and Young Democrats Club.

Adults should accept the fact that teens are developing their own political beliefs and have the capability to hold mature conversations. Embracing the differences in opinions through varieties of people, including teens, is important.

The Washington Post article “My teen has lots of political opinions. . .” explains teens have political opinions and young people need to stay thoughtful and interested in the upcoming elections. In just a few years, today’s teens will be the driving force of America’s political climate.

Giving teens the ability to hold a powerful thought

at a young age will positively impact students' preparation for the future and offers opportunities for critical thinking.

To adapt to teens having strong opinions, adults need to demonstrate civil disagreements and acceptance of other people’s opinions.

As citizens, the right to vote provides the chance to execute interests that are considered in the political environment, so the earlier voters construct their belief, the more well-thought their opinion will be.

If teens are interested in politics and feel they are mature enough to hold a political opinion and have conversations revolving around that opinion, then they should do so without being judged.

The Talon Policy The Talon provides students with an opportunity to research and write informative articles related to Nation Ford High School or topics students find interesting. The paper’s objective is to notify the school community of the news in a timely and informative manner and to entertain them through articles and columns.

The staff encourages letters to the editor. Nation Ford High School students, staff members, and the public can express their opinions and reactions to the articles in The Talon.

Letters should be signed and should not exceed 150 words. Letters submitted may be published in the paper at the discretion of The Talon staff and will be edited for accuracy, length, and grammar, as well as offensive or inappropriate content.

The staff may permanently keep all unpublished letters for reference or guidance for future writing. All submissions should be submitted to Mrs. Swann, room D111, or via email to swanne@fortmillschools.org.

Please keep in mind that opinions voiced in the articles and personal columns are not those of the Nation Ford High School newspaper staff or Nation Ford High School’s administration, faculty, or staff; opinions are solely those of the author who submitted the article.

2015 Best Newspaper in South Carolina 2015 Newspaper Palmetto Award ALL STATE Rating for 2015 International 1st Place by Quill and Scroll Society 2015, 2016

December 2021

OP / ED • 3

SOCIAL MEDIA: Time to turn phones off, turn awareness on

T

ikTok. Snapchat. Instagram. The apps that teenagers spend the most time are actually the ones causing them harm. Social media is an addiction that has taken over our generation and society. Apps changed us. Whether you believe it’s for better or worse, all of us should limit our time on social media apps.

The world spends more than 10 billion hours using social platforms each day, which is the equivalent of nearly 1.2 million years of human existence, according to Kepios, a website that follows digital trends to help people succeed.

Social media takes up way too much of our time and can be extremely addictive.

“There have been studies that have shown that getting 'likes' triggers dopamine in our brains, the chemical that plays a role in how we feel pleasure.,” Social studies teacher Tyler Griffin said. People have become literally addicted to social media because of the way it interacts with our brains. Social media companies know this, and they capitalize on it.”

Math teacher Nicole Rauppius says social media has negatively affected students' achievement in school. “Because it can be so addicting, students will spend hours on social media rather than working on homework or studying,” she said.

Deleting certain social media apps or putting time limits on them can help with a social media dependency. Uninstalling or changing features like autoplay and constant swiping can also help. Because apps are literally built to be addictive, the only real way to guarantee you won’t go on it is to delete it.

by Mackenzie Creasman internet also pose threats. Young kids who are alOf course social media has its benefits, It keeps lowed onto these apps or that get them behind their us connected and gives us outlets for creativity, but, parent’s backs can easily be drawn into something many apps have had a negative effect on our society. dangerous.

An estimated 500,000 online predators are active Multiple studies have found a strong link beeach day, and an estimated 89% of sexual advances tween heavy social media use and an increased directed at children occur in internet chapoor mental health. Users are at higher trooms or through instant messaging, risk for depression, anxiety, loneliaccording to the Children Crime ness, self-harm, and even suicidPrevention and Safety Center. al thoughts. Teens know apps Social media can be a dancan promote inadequacy gerous place when companies about your life or appearare more interested in money ance. than the safety of the users.

While there are Social media can really healthy ways to use soovertake your life. It is percial media, when used fectly fine in moderation, by vulnerable teens or but it's hard to stay on for kids who are easily in“just one more minute”. fluenced and naive, it The dangers of it don’t seem can end badly. to phase teens because it beThe introduction of uncomes something they can't safe coping methods such really imagine their life withas self harm to children with out.

But think of what you could easily susceptible minds can be

by Pait n y i l n accomplish in the hours you spend b T dangerous. I have struggled with um scrolling on TikTok. being introduced to things I was too Spend time with your family, help a neighbor, young to be exposed to. Social media can put learn to cook, work towards something you're pasnegative ideas into your head. I have also dealt with sionate about, or study for your test. Just make sure feelings of inadequacy. It’s easy to compare yourto ask yourself the question... self to people online and feel insecure.

Is it really worth spending so much time on social Sexual predators, trends that can cause physimedia? cal harm, and exposure of your private data on the

What is your opinion on social media?

“It’s harmful because people are bold when they don’t have to say it to your face.”

by Kaiden Bridges & Paityn Tumblin

Alisha Byrd

Project Based Learning Improves Grades

Anisha Patel (‘25)

“Social media is bad because it corrupts children’s minds.”

Mustafa Alameri (‘24)

“It is bad. It’s easy to be harassed depending on what you use it for.”

Cooper Friberg (‘22)

School projects should replace traditional test assessments

Replacing tests, exams at school for more project-based learning could be beneficial for students in the long run

by Kalli Desai Social Studies Project Based Learning groups proved social studies grades to improve 63%.

English

in the same study researchers found that students English grades improved 23%.

Overall

Project Based Learning increases students' knowledge & understanding of content materials.

SOURCE edutopia.org

December 2021

“I don’t think social media is best for teens, but it depends on how they use it.”

by Kalli Desai Test anxiety. Feeling unprepared. Poor memory, and dump. They may not understand the unit that study guides that don’t relate to the test-these are they are learning and after the last test they dump all problems that students face before and while that information and move on to the next. With taking tests. Schools should focus on project-based project-based learning, students will be forced to gain a complex underlearning instead of providstanding of what they are ing tests.

Students today have a Project-based learning is better learning. Projects can allow lot to handle. They have to for students because it gives students to think deeper about topics, rather than juggle school, homework, students the ability to put a just memorizing the facts social life, jobs, extracurricof a unit and answering ular activities, and more. piece of themselves into multiple choice questions Although school is a prioritheir work. about them. ty for many students, someProject-based learning is times time can slip away, and before they know it, they have a test the next better for students because it allows them to use notes from the class along with outside resources day.

Project-based learning provides students with to do their work. Students can learn how to apply an alternative to tests. Students would instead be their notes into their school work. This can help given a hands-on project where they go in depth create useful skills like communication, collabowith what they have learned. Project-based learn- rating and to think critically when approaching a ing is better for students because it gives students problem, that students can use later in life. In futhe ability to put a piece of themselves into their ture jobs students who have had the opportunity work. Students could be able to design their own to use project-based learning will know how to With this change in curriculum, students will projects and format it the way they choose.

Most students today may not comprehend be able to apply the skills they have learned from what they are learning, students just memorize the classroom into their adult lives.

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4• NEWS

understanding the SUPPLY CHAIN quotas on foriegn goods

shortage of truck drivers

Practicing tornado drill procedures Brayden Dantzler (‘24) and Ethan Sivec (‘24) brace themselves for a possible earth quake on the D Hall on Nov. 30.

Photo by Lucas Smalley

higher energy prices

what is making matters worse?

computer chip shortage

covid shutdowns

inflation

by Paityn Tumblin

tariffs

changing labor markets

Know safety, Global supply chain issues no accidents may affect holiday shopping source: Economics teacher David Burns

Nation Ford works to keep students safe with emergency drills

by Lucas Smalley

Lockdowns, fire drills, earthquake drills, and tornado drills are practiced regularly at schools across the country. Nation Ford students and staff practice 14 drills every year. These prepare students be safe and protected if there is any danger.

“We are required every month to perform a fire drill,” said Assistant Principal Ernest Poag.

If a fire were ever to start and students are in the halls or commons, students should stay calm and cooperate with the staff and others. If smoke is in the way, find another exit, and don’t run into the smoke.

However, as reported previously by The Talon, Nation Ford still has no fire escape windows in most N Hall classrooms.

“Administrators badges tell us to Avoid. Defend. Deny.” Principal Chris Chandler said.

In any lockdown event, students should not be scared and stay quiet. When students and staff hear the announcement for the lockdown, thye go to a designated area in classrooms, but anyone in the halls or bathroom must find the closest room and stay until authorities arrive.

“I feel like the lockdown drills aren’t as protective because sometimes the shooter is practicing with us,” Tyler Mcdonald (24’) said.

In one of the most recent school shooting at Oxford High School in Oxford, Mich. the shooter was currently enrolled in the school and knew the procedures.

“Lockdowns are more than practice,” Mr. Chandler said. “Lockdowns help us find what things we need to improve on and help us get better at doing them.”

Since Nation Ford has school resource officers, the authorities are alread on campus and more would arrive quickly.

“The school resource officer will bring in a group of people to clear out the school,” Mr. Poag said.

Some teachers have complained that students have been unorganized during recent drills and expressed concern that the messages have been unclear, which could be a safety issue. The administration is aware and seeking to address the issues. Teachers receive a monthly newsletter on safety.

Although earthquakes aren’t common in South Carolina, it is crucial to practice in case of an event. Tornadoes are less of a threat to Nation Ford, but students must practice. Anyone on the school’s second floor, must go to the first floor, before crouching against a wall.

Administrators want to make sure that no matter what situation happens at school, students are safe and following the adminstrations’ and teachers’ directions to prevent making a situation worse.

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by Carly Jacobson Millions across the country are getting ready to celebrate the most expensive holiday of all. According to the National Retail Federation, American consumers are expected to spend $859 billion on Christmas this year.

This should be great news for the economy, yet stores worldwide are struggling to keep shelves stocked. Since the economic shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been numerous supply chain issues.

“During COVID-19 shut-downs, many workers who were laid off found other jobs in other industries,” economics teacher David Berns says. “So, for example, many port workers who used to load and unload ships are no longer available; they found other work and are unwilling to return to their old job.”

Many businesses are highly understaffed. As a result of not having enough employees, many establishments are having trouble getting the products they need to sell this holiday season.

Since energy prices have been rising, production costs have also been rising, and business owners want to continue making the same profit-- which is only possible if they raise prices.

Students at Nation Ford have been experiencing these shortages while shopping lately, “When I went to Target the other day, there was barely anything on the shelves,” Ella Nichols (‘24) said.

While this is a very frustrating shopping season for consumers, the only thing to do is wait it out. Experts recommend buying gift cards or making homemade gifts this holiday season.

Baskets held in guidance prepare to be auctioned off on Nov. 19. The biggest basket was a s’mores basket complete with a fire pit. The auction raised $3,200 for needy families in Fort Mill for the holidays. Photo by Megan Keller

Guidance department hosts auction for families in need

by Justin Baxter auction is ideal to sell the most amount of items in The Guidance Department raised $3,100 with the least amount of time.

The auction offered a large variety of items, such their annual silent auction, Operation Christmas Joy, on Nov. 19-21, which will provide for 22 Fort Mill as Panther’s jerseys and tickets to the Panther’s games, beach condo weekend trips, a gift card tree, families for the upcoming holidays.

“Money from the auction is used to buy holiday and much more.

“The items are donated by presents for Nation Ford students our very own faculty/staff, busiin need,” guidance counselor Me“The items are donated nesses that are connected to our gan Keller said. school, and parents also donate to “The auction is held online to by faculty/staff and the auction,” Powerschool clerk allow the most participation posAnita Benfield said. sible,” guidance counselor Amy businesses that are Guidance counsolrs say they Market said. thankful to sponsors for supplyDue to the pandemic, this onconnected to our school, ing so many fabulous donations. line auction was a way to keep Without them, this auction would people healthy while raising the and parents also donate not have such a large assortment most money possible. of quality items to auction.

An online silent auction gives to the auction.”

Operation Christmas Joy people the chance to bid on different items directly from their personal devices, brings a little holiday spirit to so many families who such as phones, tablets, or computers. This type of otherwise might not be as fortunate this year.

December 2021

Tree, warrior, downward dog

NEWS • 5

Yoga club gives students ways to relieve stress

by Gabrielle Kiser A stressful week and need to relax? Then you should join the Nation Ford High School Yoga Club.

The club meets every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month in room C105 in the dance room.

The club helps students relieve stress from their bodies after a hard school day. It also helps relieve stress and is an excellent stretch for your body. Yoga helps open your mind and soul through stressful times and helps you stay in shape.

Yoga helps students feel refreshed, improve their grades, and good mindful meditation in other schools.

Valerie Byars, who hosts the club, has practiced yoga outside of school for 11 years, so she decided to share what she learned to help release students’ tension.

“I started yoga when I found out that my husband had to go to the military, so I had to find something to help relieve the stress,” she said. “I like how yoga connects you to the body that makes you feel more present and mindful physically and mentally; yoga has helped me.”

Her favorite yoga pose is power flow, and she likes to do Vinyasa flow for deep relaxation.

She loves to teach the class all types of poses and help students build a culture for yoga and better understand their body and give them more of a relaxed day after yoga class.

Rahash Marasini (‘22) says that he has been doing yoga outside of school for about four years, and his passion for yoga has stemmed from his culture, so he thinks it’s nice to include it in his school life. His favorite yoga pose is the dragonfly, and he likes it cause it’s a nice good stretch on his shoulder blades.

“I enjoy yoga because I want to learn more and experience yoga to better myself. It also helps clear my mind, and it’s a good break from reality, while it’s also helping me work out,” said Marasini.

Jake Moore, decided to join the yoga club because

Practicing shavasana, Kami Beats (‘22) relaxes with a lavender towel over her eyes during the Yoga Club’s Nov. 11 meeting. Photo by Gabriella Kiser his mom is a yoga instructor, and he wanted to help relieve stress and to have a relaxed body, mind, and soul. His favorite pose is the tree pose because it is a nice stretch.

“I like the yoga class to be able to relax and detox with your mind and body, and I also would like to have something to do while in school every once a week during school,” Moore said.

Yoga teaches breathing techniques to help lower stress and focus on helping increase concentration.

No experience is necessary to join this club, and mats are provided. The club can help with strength, balance, and mental and physical healing.

Celebrating Thanksgiving, Emily Thomas (‘22), Julian Cardoz (‘22), Brianna Meyer (‘22), and Taylor McAbee (‘22) enjoy snacks together at the Nov.11 Club Unify Thanksgiving Celebration. Photo by Kaiden Bridges

Club Unify inspires acceptance, opportunities for friendship

by Kaiden Bridges Club Unify has organized a club that connects students and allows them to build a friendship with students in Katie Clenshaw’s special education classes.

“Club Unify is an offshoot of the Special Olympics Organization, and because of that it really focuses on the interaction between disabled students and their nondisabled peers,” Clenshaw said.

Students are welcome to come any day during the school week during FLEX and are able to spend their time outside playing games or talking to Clenshaw’s students to build relationships with them.

“This club helps my students with their social interaction and communication skills,” Clenshaw said.

“Not only does it benefit my students, but I also think it helps the unified partners to grow as well.

It teaches them to be more respectful and to see how people with disabilities can be so great.”

During a school week filled with stress and a massive workload, Club Unify is a good escape from the normal school day to take a break and enjoy time with the students as well asto take in the radiant en-

December 2021

ergy that they give off, club members say.

“I love being able to hang out with the kids,” Cayden Benson (‘22) said. “I enjoy taking them on walks around the school, throwing the ball around with them, and sharing laughs. Social interactions are one of the best things. Making them laugh and cheering them up when they’re feeling sad. I love these kids!”

It is often their favorite part of the day. Clenshaw’s students really look up to their peers at school and view them as leaders and role models, she says.

“My Club Unify friends are so fun to play with,” Brianna Meyer (‘22) said.

Clenshaw organizes multiple events throughout the year that students can be involved in such as the Special Olympics, the Polar Plunge in February, and even a trip to Columbia to attend a rally about discontinuing the saying of the “R” word.

Through Club Unify students can get involved and find new friends.

The club embraces the idea of unity and the Falcon family during the school day.

Sporting hats for sale at ‘The Flock Shop’ Digital Art & Design 1 Teacher and Advisor Tara Miller and Student Coordinator Cayla Harrel (‘23) hope to sell these items in the new store. Photo by Cat Bowman

Student made merch

Digital Art and Design students create pop up shop for peers

by Connor Lambert ‘The Flock Shop’, a brand new pop up store at Nation Ford High School in the Digital Art & Design department is opening on Fridays between first lunch and third lunch.

A pop up store is an up-and-coming trend where a brand opens up a sales space for a short period of time only. The idea behind this tactic is to generate interest, create a sense of urgency, and get people to come pay your business a visit for a fun, limited-time event.

It is happening with many small businesses, but NFHS decided it would be the perfect idea for Nation Ford merch.

“The reason why we opened up ‘The Flock Shop’ is because we wanted to create a shop to make clothes for students and athletes with a nation ford branding on it,” said Digital Art & Design 1 teacher and adviser of ‘The Flock Shop’ Tara Miller.

“The AIGA (American Institute of Graphic

“...I look forward to for the shop is adding new products students can buy that are made by our staff.”

Arts) team were the original people who wanted to create the shop,” said Miller.

The staff’s goal is to be open some time during the seecond semester in the school year .They hope to have it every friday after opening in all three lunch periods.

The store will be located right outside the commons in a small room next to the library.

This is a new addition to our school and is mostly just going to be used for this shop. It has been used by Mr. Carroll’s media tech class.

Students will use the shop’s brand new terminal to insert your card and make purchases.

This is perfect to avoid covid-19.The staff of the shop then will hand out Nation Ford branded clothes and merchandise created by the AIGA store staff.

“One thing I look forward to for the shop is adding new products students can buy that are made by our staff,” said student coordinator Cayla Harrel (‘23).

THE TALON

6• CENTERSPREAD

Negative body image

Teenagers feel insecure about their body image, social media negatively affects mental health

by Paityn Tumblin A 2019 King University study revealed that 76% of people compare their bodies to images they see on social media and other sources.

“I think the problem is that we put the best version of ourselves out on social media,” says guidance counselor Taylor Schaible. “Although putting the best version of yourself on social media doesn’t sound like it would be a bad thing, other people tend to compare themselves to you.”

In another study published in the journal about Body Image, 227 female college students were surveyed and the results showed young women who spend more time on Facebook may feel more concerned about their body because they compare their appearance to others (especially to peers), according to the same study. Facebook is not the only site that can negatively impact the way young people perceive themselves.

Schaible describes apps like Instagram and Tiktok as “highlight reels of our life”.

Other types of media can also affect people’s image of themselves.

“Even magazines and commercials portray unrealistic standards that are damaging,” Julia Wolman (‘24) said.

One student even said High School 101 classes can cause some students’ body image issues to worsen. During the health unit at Nation Ford, many students are told to look up their BMI or they are told to track everything they eat in a certain amount of time.

Body image issues can start from simply comparing your body to others but it can develop into BDD. Schaible recommends’ students see a school nurse for resources if they think they are developing BDD symptoms.

According to John Hopkins University BDD symptoms include, but are not limited to, avoiding mirrors, trying to hide your body, constant exercise, and avoiding social activities.

BDD can be connected to other mental health issues such as anxiety.

“If you are worrying about the way that you look very often, it could be anxiety,” adds Schaible“ I think we all get anxious about how people see us.”

Worrying about your body can be mentally draining.

“Body image definitely affects mental health because you’re con- stantly trying to change things about yourself to fit what you think you should look like.” Wolman (‘24) says.

Final exams take toll on teens

by Kaiden Bridges

s s

e n

wa re

“I’m stressed.” As the semester comes to an end, Studies show that 18% of high school and colfinal exams are quickly approaching. Students feel lege students experience moderate test anxiety, and the pressure. about 16% have severe anxiety about testing, accordThe stress of finishing out the semester strong and ing to psychologist Richard Driscoll in an interview performing well on finals can be a lot on students’ with Raidernews.com in June 2021. Anxiety about shoulders, especially when exams count 10% or even testing can lead to many negative mental and emo20% of their grades. tional situations, such as fear of failure and viewing “I find final exams very stressful because test grades as a sign of self-worth. of all the preparation we have to do days “Keeping your mental health good before the actual test which takes away during testing can be hard,” he adds.

18% of from our other activities,” Ella Nichols Despite the build-up in stress and students (‘24) said. “Exams are also stressful beworry when the end of the semester cause of the impact they have on our rolls around, it is important for stuexperience test final grades.” dents to understand and remember anxiety Teachers are more focused on stuthat their grades do not define them, dents mastering the material over the regardless of how the number on their - Psychologist course of the semester rather than the paper appears, counselors advise. StuRichard Driscoll score students earn on the exams. dents’ mental health should prevail over “Final exams are important because they their academic performance and students test your long-term retention of the content from the shouldn’t suffer mentally from a class at school, they semester,” history and psychology teacher Valerie say.

Byars said.

Experts say keeping healthy study habits and In the days leading up to the exams, students may maintaining physical habits, such as a good night’s find it difficult to focus on other aspects of their ev- sleep, hydration, exercise, and correct eating haberyday lives, and they can become hyper-fixated on its are more essential than ever before. the preparation for their tests.

Not only is the physical preparation for Because of the pressure and desire to do well on exams necessary, but also the mental exams, students may neglect their well-being and preparation of controlling stress self care, mental health experts say. levels and keeping the idea in Students can prepare ahead of time for exams in a mind that managing menmultitude of ways in case they do have a tendency to tal health is more imstress and worry about these tests. portant than the “Breaking content down while studying is cru- test itself. cial,” guidance counselor Amy Market said. “Not waiting until a day or two before your test to cram all of the information. Use your time management skills to make a schedule for the week before how you’re going to prepare.”

Ensuring that students don’t procrastinate on studying will help overall stress regarding the test, as well as boosting performance and the grade on the exam itself.

Attempting to avoid the extra stress is vital, especially if students already have ongoing issues with managing stress and other mental health difficulties.

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December 2021

CENTERSPREAD • 7

Parenting styles

Teenagers often affected by family dynamics

P

by Kiara Wiley

arenting plays a central role in the ents is good, and they appreciate the fact that their parents can communicate effectively and can also be mental health of our generation.

Discipline, affection, reassurance, trustworthy.

The Talon survey shows 73.7% of students say and love. Most parents demonstrate them to their children daily. But they live with authoritative parents. These students what happens if parents fail to do have say mental health disorders, which consist of so? Parents are not the only reason Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, Eating disorchildren struggle with mental ill- der, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, ADHD, Agoraphonesses, but they do play a crucial role, and they can bia, Panic Disorder, Binge-Eating Disorder, Insomnia Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder. support or exacerbate problems.

The permissive parenting style involves parents There are four different types of parenting styles that most parents use: the authoritarian parenting having low expectations, and there are only a few style, the authoritative, the permissive, and the unin- rules to abide by. When children break the rules, permissive parents avoid conflict, therefore volved parenting style. avoiding punishing children. Children The authoritarian parent(s) estabwho grow up with these parents are lish clear rules and discipline. In likely to be impulsive, risk-takers, this structured environment, it is and anxious.

37.2% of students evident that the child must be Around 5% of teens who took perfect because it is what their feel as the Talon Survey have permisparents want. These children sive parents, and 100% of reif their parents are predisposed to endure spondents say they struggle anxiety and other mental worsen their with mental health disorders. health-related disorders, acLastly, some parents are unmental health cording to “4 Types of Parentinvolved. Uninvolved parents ing Styles and Their Effects on - Talon survey spend none-to little time with Kids” by psychotherapist Amy their children. There is a lack of Morin. communication involved in their reA Talon survey of 72 students on lationship, and children in these homes Nov. 8, 2021 primarily focused on parare more at risk of feelings of abandonment. enting styles.

This may cause them to have anxiety or depression.

“My parent’s parenting style makes me stressed because they want me to be perfect- especially when All but one of these parenting styles results in chilit comes to schoolwork,” one student responded in dren being prone to have some kind of mental health the survey. “I feel as if my parents contribute nega- disorder.

All 100% of students who took the survey say that tively to my mental health.

“My parents do not believe in mental health disor- their parents worsen their mental health, and often ders. My relationship with my mom is disconnected, their parents cause them stress.

The 4.3% students who described their parents and my dad is not home a lot– I’m not connected to my parents. I do not bring up how I feel about their and “uninvolved” say their relationship with their parenting style, because they feel as if they’re the per- parents is terrible. At times there is no real relationfect parents, and if I’m not okay it means that I am ship, they said.

Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar disorder, doing something wrong.”

Eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, The Talon survey on the topic of menAgoraphobia, Panic Disorder, and tal health and parenting shows that: Insomnia Disorder, is prevalent •About half of students have with students whose parents fall authoritarian parents, and those 73.7% of children under this style. According to students feel as if their parents “Children’s Mental Health” worsen their mental health. with authoritative provided by the CDC Almost all students with auparents have a Although parents can be a thoritarian parents say they primary cause of children havhave caused them stress. mental health ing mental health disorders, •70% of students surveyed disorder they are not the only reason, struggle with mental health according to the Child Mind Indisorders. The authoritative - Talon survey stitute. parenting style is where parents “A child’s home environment set clear expectations and it is a and relationships with his parents can two-sided relationship (no dictatorexacerbate a psychiatric disorder–these ship). things may not cause the disorder. Things like Growing up in an authoritative household provides a child with a solid foundation, and they anxiety, depression, autism, and learning disorders are most likely to maintain a strong connection with are thought to have biological causes,” the Child their parents in their adulthood, according to “Char- Mind Institute website says.

In some cases, the home environment can cause acteristics of Authoritarian Parents”.

“My parents fall under the category of authoritar- anxiety disorders, according to “How Anxiety Deian parenting,” one student responded in The Talon velops,” an article published by Alvarado Parkway survey. “I have good communication with my mom, Institute, which treats anxiety. “Long-term stress, but not my dad. I have not told my parents how I like one would experience in an unhealthy relationfelt about their parenting style because they are stub- ship or at a particularly stressful job, can lead to anxiety disorders,” according to the institute. Mental born, and I know they will not understand.”

About half of students who took this survey say Disorders are often genetic and therefore are not preventable, though parents do contribute to their chilthey have authoritative parents.

Over 37% of students surveyed feel as if their par- dren’s mental health. The illness is not all their fault.

Although they are known to have the “best” style ents worsen their mental health. Just over 60% say their parents sometimes or never worsen their mental of parenting, NFHS students with authoritarian parents reported the second-highest number of strugwell-being at all.

More than half of students reported that their par- gles with mental health disorders.

When the demands and expectations on a child ents sometimes caused them to feel stressed while the other 34.3% felt as if their parents never or rarely put outstrip the skills they have to respond, anxiety can stress on them. Students who have Authoritative par- result, experts, say. Communication can be key in ents explained that their relationship with their par- solving these barriers.

Your mental health matters ..............................

December 2021

THE TALON

8 • FEATURES

THE TALON ASKS:

"WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE GENRE OF MUSIC?" "Country is my favorite genre of music because I grew up listening to it and it has just always stuck with me."

-Clayton Rygol ('23)

"My favorite genre of music is hip-hop because I like to bop my head. No slow stuff."

-Sanaa Loyd ('23)

"I like rap more than any other genre because I like the beat, it's goated."

-Owen Ameo ('23)

"Rap is my favorite genre of music because it makes me feel hype."

-Savannah Schley ('22)

"I like country music because I like cowboys."

-Alan Minarro ('23)

Sara Pipa

You can’t complain when you listen to The Plaints

by Sara Pipa An electric guitar pierces the air with the whining feedback of amplifiers and the low heart-beat bass of the drums. Suddenly a chord strikes your ears. Then another, until you recognize The Plaints’ original song “Blonde with a Gun.” Casey McCrain (‘22), and Alex Johnson (‘22) established their band at the beginning of this school year along with bass player Matthew Dacosta (‘22) who attends Fort Mill High School. Their band came to be when AJ learned Casey played the drums, and the two decided to meet up one day in late August after school. Casey suggested switching instruments.

From there on out, Casey played guitar and sang while AJ played the drums.

McCrain thought of the name for their band one The Plaints’ friends Adalie Buckle (‘23), Angelina Leyton (‘23) , Mia Cipriani (‘23), and Chloe Maddox (‘22) come to support them night after brainstorming for hours until it finally at their first show in Casey’s garage on Nov. 20, 2021. Photo by Riley Crutchfield hit him. Plaints. The last syllable of the word “com- licizing it, but they managed to get themselves out times we can’t make it happen due to both of our plaints.” Johnson fell in love with the name almost as there. They co-own an Instagram account called: ‘_ tight schedules,” McCrain said. “My parents get so plaints_’. Here, they can post the band playing their mad about how loud we get, but we don’t let that quickly as McCrain did. stop us. The show must go on.”

Both boys have a history in music stretching pret- songs and promote their shows.

“I really do think creating the Instagram account His parents have neutral feelings about the band. ty far back. McCrain started playing the drums behas helped us,” McCrain said.

“It helped make peoThe Plaints recently played a show on Nov. 20 in cause his brother was a drummer. He was inspired ple get more familiar with us and what we create.

McCrain’s iconic garage. They played for fun and as by him and his music.

Close friends repost what we put out there and in a way to get their name out there. McCrain designed Casey’s natural competitive nature encouraged return get more attention as a band.” and created flyers for the event and had been passing him to teach himself how to play (and hopefully) one To write their first song, the boys worked togeththem out in his free-time as well as around the school day outshine his brother. He has now been playing er.

“I asked him questions and we just tag teamed in hopes of more people showing up to the event. for about a year and claims he has already surpassed and came up with what we got,” Johnson said.

“I was so excited to play for new people,” said his brother’s abilities.

They’ve used this technique for almost all of their McCrain.

“We did run into a few problems throughHe believes he mainly got his musical talent from songs including; break in, blonde with a gun, and reout the show though.

My guitar strap fell off twice so his mother. “My mom was the first chair violinist at lationsh*t.

I had to play on the floor for a few seconds.” her high school,” McCrain said.

“Our genre of music is like punk, or punk rock There were about 20 people who showed up, He was also formerly a drummer in a metal band music,” Johnson said.

Every song has deeper meanwhich was a good turnout for their first show. consisting of four people called Pariah, which means ing to both of them than what listeners may underMcCrain and Johnson both said that the experioutcast in Latin. stand -they like to write about personal experiences ence was unforgettable and they can’t wait for their Johnson played in a professional jazz band and and try their best to make their music relatable to next show.

They plan on having another one two his dad played the drums. They both have always teenagers growing up today. months from now at a location yet to be decided. had a taste for music.

“We usually just practice in my garage.

We try to If rock music is your jam, make sure to check out Putting a band together is not easy, nor is pubget together at least three times a week, but some- The Plaints, I guarantee they will rock your socks off.

Dune Review: iconic science fiction

by Lilah Skovran Set in the galaxy of a far future, Dune tells the sto- creatures, and weapons. ry of the young Paul Atreides. In this novel, the first Politics also play a huge part in the book, and in a series of six, he and his family are sent to the des- from the release date of the book in 1965, it has held ert planet Arrakis for new jurisdiction over the most up well with the current diplomacy of today. The leivaluable mineral in The Empire–the spice. surely pace of the novel helps the reader understand When conflict arises, Paul must fight to ensure the and digest the foreign setting that is established. future of his family and his people, while also findThe book explores free will and fate, going deep ing disturbing truths about his past and future. into the meaning of each and how they can change Dune (2021), the new movie based off of the book, life in an instant. has arrived in theaters. The film’s popularity has Dune shows how humans always wonder what sparked interest in the 1965 novel. the future will be, whether it is a day or a hundred Author Frank Herbert has written Dune in a way years in the future. Readers can’t help but question that immerses the reader into a new and unique uni- and think about their own individual futures. verse. It is in the form of a near-perfect and brilliant Star Wars fans, thriller lovers, and drama loversscience-fiction novel. All of the characters are com- -this book is right up your alley. “Leave you on the plex as they are interesting, and are all pieced togeth- edge of your seat” moments will have you wanting er in their own unique way. more. Spaceships, betrayal, and secrets make HerSome say the beginning of the book is somewhat bert’s Dune an inventive and masterly crafted story slow, however, it is a very intricate story, and needs that influenced the world of science fiction into what to be slowly pieced together. Dune has to introduce it is today. the many different languages, cultures, traditions, Herbert, Frank Dune. Chilton Books, 1965.

THE TALON

December 2021

College applications affect students’ mental health

by Mine Karatas

Every fall seniors scurry to get their college applications out. As the deadlines begin to appear, the stress begins to take a toll on some students.

There are many steps to the application process.

Counselors will help with needed information such as transcripts, recommendations, etc. However, the rest is all up to the student. Common Application can take awhile to fill out if the student is applying to several colleges, and experts recommend allowing two to three months to complete the applications.

It can also become expensive.

College of Charleston charges $60 per application through Common App and Clemson charges up to $70. The prices alone can affect a family’s finances. Some students cannot afford fees and it can get overwhelming. FAFSA (Free Application For Federal Student Aid) is where students apply for federal grants so that colleges can determine a students’ federal aid eligibility. This can be a stressful and long process. Applying for financial aid requires parental information and financial status. It can take up to days or weeks to finally finish. Once it is done, however, being able to qualify for scholarships is rewarding.

Common Application helps streamline essential parts of the admissions process - is a platform for students to be able to fill out questions for each college where they wish to apply. Questions range from SAT/ACT scores, parent information, essays, high school courses.

“I get overwhelmed when colleges ask for my SAT scores. In my opinion, my SAT scores do not solely define who I am as a student,” says Hannah Clark (‘22).

Parental pressure can also take a toll on students’ mental health. Some parents put severe pressure on students to apply to certain colleges that students are not even interested in. Or the pressure can be high if parents push their children to double up and get in as many AP classes, clubs and sports they can in their last year to amp up their résumés.

Clark said submitting is the hardest part of the application process for her.

“It is extremely hard submitting in August and having to wait until December-February for a response,” she says. “It makes me second guess all of my hard work during the summer.”

Some students compare themselves to others.

When completing applications, students have to address every aspect of their lives through activities, family, background and grades. If a student sees another student has a better GPA or class rank, they may feel stupid or belittled.

Some kids have anxiety from the thought that they are not good enough to get into their “dream college”.

In the article “Protecting Kids’ Mental Health during College Admissions” author William Deresiewicz, explains that teachers can recognize a shift in focus in class when students put all of their attention on college applications. The situation can lead to grades slipping. He also talks about ways to protect the mental health of children during this period of time.

“First, parents have to understand that an elite college education is not a golden ticket to success and happiness. The world is full of all kinds of possibilities,” the article says.

College applications have a role in students’ futures, however, they should not be the source of destroying one’s mental health according to the article “Protecting Kids’ Mental Health”. It is important to take the application process one step at a time, do not cram everything all at once, and do not compare yourself to other applicants. Being your own worst enemy makes the process a lot more stressful, the article says.

“To make the whole process easier for me, I have prepared myself at the end of junior year by attending multiple workshops, meeting with my school career/college counselor and taking it one step at a time,” Clark explains.

FEATURES • 9

Podcast Review

Anything goes... literally

by Sara Pipa

Social media content creator Emma Chamberlain (20) has dabbled in almost every element of social media. Her content varies from YouTube videos, to Instagram posts, to lighthearted TikToks.

Most recently she has given her own special take on podcasting.

In the past, Emma had a podcast named ‘Stupid Genius’.

“I’m kinda changing up my podcast a little,” she says in her video titled, talking about my feelings at 2am (while drawing). “I like podcasting, but Stupid Genius... I feel like I kind of outgrew it in a sense. So I’m gonna be starting a new podcast with a different name and all that.”

She named her new and improved podcast ‘Anything Goes’. Here, literally anything goes. Her podcast is as raw as it gets when it comes to an online social media platform. She makes her audience feel normal by talking about her personal life experiences and the many lessons she has learned while growing up.

Anything Goes stands at a current rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Apple Podcasts. There are currently 92 episodes uploaded as of December 2021.

Emma tries her best to be as interactive with her fan base as possible which makes her viewers listening from home feel more connected with her. She asks her listeners what they want to hear and what topics they want her to speak on. One of her most popular topics is mental health.

Many teenagers find listening to her therapeutic-she has a kind voice and relatable topics.

I resonate with her words of wisdom and advice.

Her podcasts are definitely meant for a mature audience considering the use of explicit language and more mature topics. I would recommend it for ages 13-14+.

If you are ever looking for a pass-time or maybe struggling with the hardships of being a teenager in this generation, take a listen. You might find yourself liking it.

Teacher Ben Ruddy Recalls Coming to U.S.

by Connor Ford

Ben Ruddy was only nine-years-old when he left his home in Kirkintilloch, Scotland. He still remembers when the New York City skyline came into view after his family had flown across the Atlantic to their new home in America.

Now, the second year biology teacher admits the move was incredibly difficult at age nine. He didn’t yet have a concept of the world itself. Ruddy, his twin brother Stewart, and their parents left everything behind when his dad’s job transfer led his family to South Carolina.

America proved to be a lot different than Scotland. The people, the food, the roads, the accents, the weather, the activities, and even the measurements were different.

“When I was six I used to take all my stuffed animals out and teach them,” Ruddy said. “From that point I knew I wanted to teach.”

Biology teacher Ben Ruddy posing with his Biology and Physical Ruddy loves to help kids, and he likes to take Science textbooks on June 11, 2021. care of the earth, so teaching biology was a no His twin brother also teaches. He’s an English brainer for him.

The amount of enthusiasm Ruddy exudes when teacher at Fort Mill High School. “We share stoteaching makes students want to learn. The class ries about teaching every single day,” Ruddy said. energy is unmatchable, he wants to get the concept “We Facetime after school and talk about what hapacross in a fun, motivating way. Despite his high-en- pened.” The two brothers say they are not really ergy teaching style, Ruddy says the hardest part of competitive. “My brother is my best friend. I have teaching for him is motivating students. But he says a great deal of respect for him as an educator and I the best part of teaching is working with the students. look up to him,” Ruddy says.

He teaches three Biology 1 classes this semester.

Ruddy graduated in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in science from Clemson University. Recently, ”He is always trying to include everyone in the ache earned a masters degree in teaching from Liberty tivities and making sure everyone is having fun,” Jordan Ussery (‘24) said.

University.

December 2021

Out of all units in biology, he says energy is his favorite.

“The material from the energy unit is a little bit more difficult, so I feel like I have achieved something when I am able to have students understand the processes,” Ruddy said. He asks if students need help and if they don’t understand what’s going on he asks them to come to FLEX. ”Mr. Ruddy forms really good friendships with all of his students,” Caitlyn Hess (‘24) said.

When he comes up with lesson plans, he makes sure it provides the students with all the skills and material for the unit. He also puts energy into making sure the lessons have reinforcement for all types of learners, he says.

“In the future I want to become a department head at a high school,” Ruddy says. “Then after that, I would like to join the administration staff.”

Ruddy thinks this is a really good goal to be working towards. He wants to help make the school environment better and more accepting towards all students.

He says his mom is his greatest inspiration, she taught him how to work hard and respect everyone.

In Ruddy’s free time he likes to sleep, watch movies, play golf, and ride horses. He also has three cats that he takes care of.

Because Ruddy is 24-years-old and only a few years older than his students, it makes it easier for him to connect with his students. “The feeling of coming to school everyday and seeing my student’s faces is really amazing,” Ruddy said.

Once, he left everything behind, but Ruddy hopes his life in Fort Mill will lead to his goals for the fu-

THE TALON

10• SPORTS

Boys basketball rebuilds from last season

by TJ Hailstock The Nation Ford basketball team faces off against Marvin Ridge at home at 7:30 tonight hoping to get another win. At press time the team is 2-3 on the season.

The Falcons played against Providence High School on Nov. 17 before the season started, and the Falcons lost 49-43.

“The biggest problem was turnovers. We need to start limiting them and start running some good offense,” Quadier Hand (‘22) said.

The Falcon’s turned the ball over 12 times during the scrimmage.

The team kicked off the season squaring off against Piedmont High School, winning that game 50-23 and holding Piedmont to single digits heading into halftime. The Falcons then lost to Riverside High School 57-48, as well as a very close game to Catawba Ridge 54-52 in the Milltown Classic Tournament.

Overall in the tournament, Nation Ford cut down the total number of turnovers, but only won the turnover battle one out of the three games.

Head coach Jared Adamson is trying to improve the team overall from the rough season last year.

“Everyone needs to step it up from last year,” Adamson said coming into this season.

The team struggled to get in a rhythm and stay in it last year because they were quarantined a number of times leading to a dismal record last year of 1-15 beating only Lugoff-Elgin 52-35.

“COVID made for a difficult year,” Coach Adamson said. “We got shut down multiple times for COVID–anytime we started to catch a groove, we had to quarantine for two weeks. It was a battle all season.”

Obviously the basketball team was left with a lot of work to do coming into this season if they want to put up better numbers than last year.

The team is looking very young and will have only four returning lettermen in seniors Hand, Dev-

Getting ready to shoot a free throw, JJ Rembert (‘24) tries to score against Rock Hill High School on Nov. 30 at home.

Photo by TJ Hailstock on Fletcher, Khalid Washington, Gus Sharpless, and Ryan Smith.

Even with the knowledge of last season, Adamson says their workouts will look the same as last season, and he won’t change up any of their work. ”Our body of work is not changing,” he said.

Despite being a very young team, they made a lot of good changes in the beginning of the season. The Falcon’s improved their effort and their attitude.

“I have already seen a big change in the team’s effort and attitude,” Hand said. “We are ready to win.”

Young girls basketball works to improve

Freshman Camille Kerridge leads Falcon team on as talented combo-guard varsity veterans, the team is still filled

by Kaiden Bridges With a record of 2-4, the Falcons are with talented girls who are sure to preparing to compete against Marvin make major impressions on the team Ridge at home on Dec. 10. and the overall result of their season.

With the season underway, Coach “Camille Kerridge is a ninth grade Coretta Richmond and her almost combo guard and team co-captain that completely new varsity team have can rise above any occasion,” Richbeen working hard to prepare for the mond said. “She can score, facilitate, upcoming regular season as well as to dribble, drive, etc. with the craftiness build upon their team chemistry. of ease. Nothing rattles her and this is “We have been together since the a remarkable trait as a ninth grader.” summer but some have been with Kerridge has already made a trethe program working out with var- mendous impact on the team. sity since their “Camille Kerseventh grade “...That is what makes Camille ridge is special to year; our chemherself and her special, she wants all that istry has been team. She brings on the move to out the best of all surrounds her to be a part of us at Nation Ford a strong sisterhood,” RichHigh School unthe game and play it mond said. “I am knowingly and loving the proher team respects the way it should be.” cess as each of her for being so us work on our down to earth,” flaws to bring toRichmond said. gether a solidified team. We wear the “Her team appreciates her and what our Falcons jerseys to represent what she brings to the table. . . That is what we stand for and for who we play for makes Camille special, she wants all to earn the respect of going against ad- that surrounds her to be a part of the versity for the sake of our school. The game and play it the way it should be.” young ladies wear the uniform well.”

Richmond and fans are impressed.

Hopes are high for the talented “She is a joy to watch and a wonder young Falcons as they strive to prove to coach,”Richmond said. to their opponents that they’ve got So far this season, the young proswhat it takes to compete. pect has a total of 126 points scored.

“I’m excited for this season,” varsi- During the Milltown Classic tournaty shooting guard Aubrey Barney (‘25) ment over Thanksgiving break, Kersaid. “I can’t wait to be playing with ridge had a collective total of 99 points, my team and show everyone that we 27 rebounds, and 20 steals from just can do it.” three games that were played during Despite facing challenges with no the tournament.

THE TALON

Going for the layup, Camille Kerridge (‘25) leads her Falcon team against Fort Mill High School on Nov. 23 at home, but despite her 32 points in the game, Nation Ford lost 59-43.

“My goals for this season include being named an All-Region player, as well as for our team to be region champions,” Kerridge (‘25) said. “This season will be a learning season for us and I can’t wait to see what it has in store

for us!”

With a large chunk of the season left to play, it’s expected that the first year varsity prospect will only continue to show out to help make the hopes of the Lady Falcons come true.

December 2021

SPORTS • 11

Falcon High Flyer

Wrestler Caden Brandenburg commits to Belmont Abbey College

by Hanson Nguyen

Lining up in front of the student section, cheerleaders at the last home football game of the season on Oct. 29 prepare to pump up the crowd. Nation Ford lost to Clover 18-15. Photo by Josie Alsbrooks

Falcon cheerleaders

Cheer squad competes, pump up the crowd

by Josie Alsbrooks of cheerleading last year as a freshman. Clark has Football season has ended and basketball season enjoyed it and made a lot of new friends through has just begun, so bring on the Falcon spirit. Nation cheerleading.

Leah McNeil (‘23) says her mother was a cheerFord cheerleaders are pumping up fans and players leader, so she encouraged her daughter to try out at home games.

Fans see the sideline version of our cheerleaders, as well. McNeil has been a cheerleader for 5 years, but we don’t get a real good look at all of the stress, starting in seventh grade. She has grown a love for strength, and effort that this sport involves. Those the sport and gives it her all.

McNeil finds it funny when people say cheerwho believe cheerleading could not possibly be a sport, must not understand the dedication cheer- leading is not a sport because they only see the game side. leading takes.

McNeil has had quite a few injuries, such as a bro“When I hear people say that cheerleading is not a sport, it makes me feel unappreciated because of all ken right hand and multiple concussions. Though of my time and effort that I put into it,” varsity cheer- competition season brings lots of concerns for injuries, competitions leader Emma Clark (‘24) said. are her favorite part of Clark says that she undercheerleading. She puts stands when people say it isn’t “Cheerleading is the epitome a lot of effort into her a sport when the girls are cheersport. Sometimes Mcing for football games because it of what the word sport defines.

Neil is even called in to looks mostly like a few stunts double compete, meanand cheers, but competition seaWhat makes our sport so much ing she is doing two son is a completely different storoutines instead of one. ry. harder than others is the coheHead Coach Megan Competition season is fast Bivins has been coachpaced and can be overwhelming siveness we have to have to be ing cheerleading for and dangerous. Clark explains more than 10 years, and that during competition season, able to perform together.” she has been coaching if someone gets hurt, the team the Nation Ford varsity has to teach a new cheerleader –Coach Megan Blevins team for the past three the entire routine. years. She was a cheerThe replacement cheerleader has to run through the routine and perfect. Most of leader herself when she was younger.

“I actually went to Northwestern High School, the time routines turn out well, but the cheerleaders which is where I fell in love with the sport!” Bivins are anxious throughout the process.

Injuries are also a big part of this sport, and it said. Bivins gives reporters the actual meaning of takes a lot of practice to make sure that no one gets the sport and then tells why it is the sport of all sports. hurt.

“Cheerleading is the epitome of what the word “I have never personally gotten an injury, purely out of luck, but I have witnessed them. One second sport defines,” said Bivins. What makes our sport you’re in the air stunting and the next second you’re so much harder than others is the cohesiveness we have to have to be able to perform together.” on the floor with a fractured wrist,” Clark said.

The girls start their practices off by warming Another big part of cheerleading is a well built connection with teammates and coaches. If the girls up their skills and then executing them full on for don’t feel comfortable and confident in their team, about two hours, and then perform for Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, games on Fridays, and then nothing is going to work out.

Clark was a gymnast for most of her life, and she competitions on Saturdays.

They have a busy season, but they always keep discovered her passion for cheerleading at the end of her eighth grade year. She began her first year Falcon spirit soaring.

Dedicated. Determined. Disciplined. Wrestler Caden Brandenburg (‘22) signed with Belmont Abbey College on Nov. 11 to continue his scholastic career.

It’s been a long, brutal, and bumpy ride for Brandenburg to get to where he is now. Through hard work and self discipline, it’s safe to say that he has a bright future ahead of him. However, he hasn’t been wrestling for his entire life and he wasn’t naturally gifted with the sport. In fact, he only started wrestling in eighth grade, and as a kid, he wasn’t interested or attracted to the sport.

“I’ve been wrestling all year round since eighth grade,” he says. “I got into wrestling because of one of my friends. He would frequently come over and show me moves that he learned during practice and I thought it was really cool, so I thought I’d give it a shot.”

Wrestling head Coach Tony Forte has been beside Brandenburg for the past few years through all the complications, upsets, and body blows, following and guiding him through his wrestling journey.

“Caden’s been a part of this program since middle school,” says Coach Forte. “He was a sophomore when I first got here in the 2019-2020 school year. As the years have gone on, we have gotten very close,” says Coach Forte. “He’s been a joy to coach. He works hard during the season and is also committed to training and competing during the off-season.

That’s one of the main reasons that he has gotten himself to where he’s at now.”

It hasn’t been smooth since Brandenburg stepped foot on the mat for the first time. He had to overcome challenges and learn a lot in order to find himself and gain a foothold in the sport.

“I’m very proud of him. It was not an easy journey for him to get where he’s at,” says Coach Forte.

“He had to figure a lot of things out when he was a sophomore- he had to find out what is the best way for Caden Brandenburg to wrestle in order to be successful. He’s had some setbacks, but he worked through them. Wrestling is a sport where the journey isn’t easy. You’re going to get your teeth kicked in and heart broken numerous times along the way, but once you get there, it is well worth it. He’s gone through a lot to be able to say that he’s not only a college athlete, but a scholarship athlete.”

Wrestling, like other sports, affect the athlete physically, mentally, and emotionally.

“The most challenging thing to me in wrestling is having a good mindset and really digging deep to win those tough matches,” says Brandenburg.

“You have to believe in yourself. You have to believe that you are the best wrestler on the mat.”

Wrestling impacted Brandenburg in ways he would not have imagined.

“Wrestling really has affected me in many ways,” he says. “It changed me physically because wrestling for two hours straight at practice for six days a week is one of the hardest things to do and it really helped my endurance. It also changed me mentally in the way that I don’t give up on things as easily anymore and whenever I do something, I make sure to give it my all.”

THE TALON

ADS/SPORTS • 12

Dance team competes, entertains Falcon fans

by Lilah Skovran Basketball season is starting, the Nation Ford Dance Team is ready to promote school spirit as they prepare for more competitions and games.

Julie Shaw has been coaching in the Fort Mill School District for 11 years. This is her second year coaching the Nation Ford Dance Team. The team performs styles of dance: the three are pom, jazz, and hip hop.

“For practice we warm up, go over any sideline routines, and practice routines for upcoming games,” said Shaw.

Fifteen members dance on the team–one senior, six juniors, four sophomores, and four freshmen. The

“The best part of being on the dance

team is getting to be apart of the school and getting the opportunities to encourage my classmates.” dance team starts to prepare for the football season in the summer.

“The girls enjoy tunneling the football team as they are introduced,” said Shaw. “Throughout the game, they complete sideline dances with the band and perform a halftime routine.”

The team prepares for basketball season the same way they do for football season. But they do not have to learn sideline routines.

“Dance team competitions take place all over South Carolina,” said Shaw. “They require you to enter into the competition based on a dance category.”

They usually keep the focus on the pom and jazz c a t e g o r y when entering competitions.

“Competition season for the team looks like a lot of practice and a lot of hard work,” Olivia Van Dreason (‘25) said. The team had their first competition last month, and they had to put a lot of effort into the dance to make sure it was clean and sharp. They

December 2021

The Falcon Dance Team perform at all home games. The 15 girls danced at the Clover High School game on Oct. 29.

Photo by Josie Alsbrooks have more competitions coming up in January and February.

“The hardest part about being on the dance team is that we all have to be hitting the right movement at the right time,” said Van Dreason. “It can be very hard to get everyone on the right count and to stay sharp, but I think that is what being on the team is all about.”

Their routines are usually only two minutes long but they involve a lot of hard dance techniques and arm movements.

“It’s physically challenging to get moves right that

are new to me.” said Sadie Tucker (‘25). The team has to get the dances down very quickly.

“The best part of being on the dance team is getting to be a part of the school and getting the opportunity to encourage my classmates,” said Tucker.

She feels that the dance team means getting to lift everybody’s spirits and being able to excite the crowd for Nation Ford’s teams.

Every practice, the Nation Ford dance team does their stretches and gets straight to work, performing their best to be prepared to hype up the crowd and cheer on their teams for the new season.

THE TALON